‘Smile 2’ Is Streaming on Paramount+

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Smile 2, a highly anticipated horror sequel from Paramount Pictures and one of the standout films in its genre for 2024, continues to be one of the most-watched movies on Paramount+. Released in theaters last October, it became available for streaming on December 3, and it remains at the peak of Paramount+’s movie rankings.

Smile 2, penned and helmed by Parker Finn, generated significant buzz as one of the most eagerly awaited sequels of the year. Originating from Finn’s short film Laura Hasn’t Slept, Smile became a trailblazing triumph for Paramount Pictures, who bought the movie for a direct-to-streaming debut. Nevertheless, the test screenings produced exceptional feedback, prompting the studio to increase their marketing budget and aim for a cinematic premiere. The budget for this endeavor was set at $50 million.

Following its release, Paramount experienced an enormous success with the film, prompting discussions about a follow-up almost immediately. Finn requested involvement in the potential sequel under the condition that he would maintain creative control. This was due to his strategic decision to leave certain plot points unresolved in the original movie, hoping for a sequel like ‘Smile 2‘ to address them. The opening scene of this anticipated sequel is likely to answer those lingering questions effectively, making it one of the most promising horror sequels in recent times.

In a second chance at life, globally recognized pop sensation Skye Riley navigates her path after a harrowing car crash and controversial celebrity existence. However, a run-in with an old companion introduces her to a mysterious entity that transforms those around it into devoted admirers, sporting eerie, grinning visages. On the verge of embarking on a world tour, Skye finds herself confronted by an enigmatic danger and drawn into a vortex where she grapples with the authenticity of her reality.

The second installment was a huge hit for Finn and Paramount Pictures, earning more than $138 million at the theater and suggesting that there will likely be a third one. However, we won’t delve into specifics since everything is just speculation at this stage. Interestingly, the director, who is also working on a remake of “Possession,” has hinted at some potential plotlines for the next film.

‘Smile 2’ Is Undeniable Proof of Why Horror Can Be Profitable Within the Studio System

Various films have made it onto Paramount+’s list of most-viewed movies over the past few weeks, with Tom Cruise’s action films “Top Gun: Maverick” and both “Jack Reacher” titles gradually moving up the rankings. However, it’s been weeks since “Smile 2” has held the top spot. This clearly indicates that horror genres can be a successful choice for major film studios.

These major film studios such as Universal Pictures, Paramount Pictures, and Warner Bros., don’t consistently acknowledge the worth of horror films. In recent times, only a handful of terrifying movies have managed to persuade executives that horror movies warrant theatrical releases equivalent to any other drama production. Horror remains perceived as a gamble, making it challenging to market an original horror movie (such as Longlegs).

Jordan Peele has done an outstanding job with Universal Pictures, and his three movies have received theatrical screenings, albeit not as part of a well-known franchise. Warner Bros. took a risk on Evil Dead Rise, while Paramount saw potential in Smile 2. However, they are still franchise films, and studios can make reasonable predictions about their success. Here’s hoping that successful horror movies like these will continue to secure a prominent position within the studio system, even if it leads to a possible Smile 8 release in around ten years.

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2025-01-13 03:03